Ordering custom apparel for the first time can feel intimidating. File formats, color matching, sizing charts, minimums — there is a lot to navigate. We put together this guide based on the questions our customers ask most, so your first order goes smoothly.
1. File Format Matters More Than You Think
The best file formats for custom apparel are vector files: .AI, .EPS, or .SVG. These scale to any size without losing quality. If you only have a .JPG or .PNG, that is okay — we may be able to work with it if the resolution is high enough (300 DPI or more). Low-resolution logos pulled from websites usually need to be redrawn.
2. Your Colors May Look Different on Fabric
Screens use RGB color. Printing and embroidery use Pantone (PMS) or CMYK. What looks like a vibrant blue on your monitor may print slightly different on fabric. Ask for a Pantone color match if brand consistency is critical.
3. Always Ask for a Digital Mockup
Reputable decorators always provide a digital proof before production. Review it carefully — check logo placement, size, and colors. Once you approve a proof, production errors become your responsibility.
4. Sizing Charts Are Not Universal
A medium from one brand is not the same as a medium from another. Always check the specific sizing chart for the garment you are ordering. We include garment-specific size charts with every quote.
5. Minimums Are Smaller Than You Expect
The "we require 144 pieces" era is largely over for quality decorators. With DTF printing, minimums can be as low as 1 piece. Embroidery setups cost more but can be done in runs of 12 or fewer for many styles.
6. Turnaround Time Starts After Proof Approval
The clock on your order does not start when you submit your request — it starts when you approve the proof. Plan for 1–2 business days for proofing, then 5–10 business days for production, depending on complexity and quantity.
7. Ordering Extra Pieces Is Cheaper Than Reordering
Per-unit costs drop significantly with quantity. If you think you might need 50 pieces, ordering 60 is usually much cheaper per shirt than placing a second order of 10 later.
8. Decoration Placement Has Standards
Left chest logos are typically 3–4 inches wide. Full front prints are 10–12 inches wide. Oversized prints that go edge-to-edge cost more. Ask to see a size reference on the mockup so you know what to expect.
9. Color of Garment Affects Print Results
Printing on dark garments requires either a white underbase (for screen print and some DTF) or a lighter ink set. Embroidery is not affected by garment color but thread color selection matters more on dark fabrics.
10. Communicate Your End Use
Tell your decorator how the shirts will be used — uniforms that get washed daily, event shirts worn once, outdoor workwear. This affects which decoration method, fabric, and ink type we recommend. A quick conversation upfront saves headaches later.
Have questions before your first order? Our Boise team is happy to walk you through the whole process with zero pressure. Or submit your logo and get a free mockup to see how your design will look.
